How Did Bengal Police Uncover a Fake Birth-Death Certificate Racket?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Fraudulent operations can have serious legal consequences.
- Document integrity is crucial in maintaining trust within society.
- Police investigations are vital in uncovering fraudulent schemes.
- Awareness of fake documents can help citizens protect themselves.
- Community vigilance is key to preventing fraud.
Kolkata, Nov 24 (NationPress) In a significant breakthrough, the Bengal Police have dismantled a substantial operation based in Gosaba, located in the South 24 Parganas district, that was responsible for the issuance of numerous fraudulent birth and death certificates. Following a complaint filed at the Shakespeare Sarani Police Station, a couple from Kolkata has been taken into custody.
The investigation revealed that counterfeit death certificates were fabricated in Pathankoli, which serves as the entry point to the Sundarban National Park.
According to police reports, the couple, identified as George Clinton Dickson and Carol Erickson Dickson, allegedly obtained a fake death certificate to unlawfully gain control over a rented shop in the Shakespeare Sarani area.
Reports indicate that Saral Roy and Nityaranjan Ghosh had leased a shop situated on AJC Bose Road in Kolkata. The Dicksons later sought to take over the premises through a sublease. Allegedly, they produced a fraudulent death certificate for Nityaranjan Ghosh to claim full ownership of the property.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Nityaranjan Ghosh had passed away in 2014, and his family had received his legitimate death certificate. However, in an attempt to gain an advantage, the Dickson couple allegedly created a fake death certificate in August of the previous year via an agent, which was later identified as a forgery when presented in court. This led to the filing of a complaint at the Shakespeare Sarani police station.
The inquiry revealed that the agent responsible for creating the fake death certificate was Gautam Sardar from Pathankoli, who reportedly provided the document to the Dickson couple.
Authorities noted that approximately 3,000 fake birth certificates and 510 fake death certificates were fabricated through Gautam Sardar, and this information is currently under verification.
Past investigations into counterfeit passports in Kolkata and adjoining areas have also traced illicit birth certificates back to Pathankhali. The police have apprehended the alleged mastermind of the operation, although their identity remains undisclosed as efforts continue to locate additional accomplices.